Peru Senator advocates for return of mandatory military service

Peruvian Senator Juan Carlos del Águila, a member of the Fuerza Popular party, has publicly advocated for the reinstatement of mandatory military service in Peru. The system, which was transitioned to a voluntary model in 1999, is being reconsidered as a tool to address national security challenges.

Del Águila, who represents the Loreto region and serves on the National Defense and Internal Order Commission, argues that the return of conscription could provide discipline, vocational training, and a way to prevent youth recruitment by criminal organizations involved in extortion, drug trafficking, and contract killings. He stated that the proposal should undergo a formal evaluation within the legislative chambers.

The debate follows previous legislative efforts, such as a 2024 initiative by Congresswoman María Acuña, which also aimed to use military service to steer young people away from crime. Currently, Peru maintains a voluntary military service for individuals aged 18 to 30 across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.